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Success Stories: Desiree Wilson

UHD Graduate Follows Dreams of Pursuing Science

Desiree Wilson graduated magna cum laude in May 2011 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from UHD. The recipient of multiple scholarships and awards, Wilson's passion lies in scientific research. She joined the doctorate program at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio in fall 2011.

Listening to her speak passionately on the human physiology is a clear indication that Wilson is pursuing the right career path. Her eyes light up as she says, "If you understand what's going on at the molecular level, you can find drugs to target a problem. It gives you the flexibility of zooming in and out." Brilliant thoughts come from the mouth of this soft-spoken and petite young woman, who found her calling during her freshman year of college. She credits her career decisions to the exposure she received at UHD from assistant professor Jerry Johnson, with whom she was able to study human physiology and how it "encompasses a whole systems approach."

Wilson also worked closely with UHD assistant professor Mian Jiang in conducting research and presented these research findings at a national conference. The presentation illustrated data on how to utilize energy more efficiently—which could help advances in science and green energy. Wilson won an award for this presentation, fueling her desire to pursue research even further.

Wilson's long-term goals are just as ambitious. She wants to study cancer to "understand the pathogens of cancer—how someone develops cancer." She wants to become a biology professor and teach other students who also love science. "I want to encourage students to pursue their dreams," she said.